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Saving Money with Internet Shopping (Frugal Friday)

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I have never been a fashionista. My sister Jamie got those genes. But, I know that when I am dressed in clothes that fit and sport relatively few stains, I feel a little more confident. I feel a little more on top of things instead of feeling — and looking — like a chump.

So, recently my wardrobe and I went to battle and I even had a consultation with a personal shopper. (More on both of those things later). The result was a small stack of clothes to give away and a few small orders to different online clothing companies.

Not only did I find clothing that fits without leaving the comfort of my home, but I also was able to save some money by a few clicks of the mouse. If I had hauled the kids with me to visit these stores, it would have taken me much longer and cost me time, money, and a few extra brain cells.

ShopAtHome is a referral and online coupon site that gives you cash back on the purchases you make online. I use it for all online shopping that is included in their program and I regularly get anywhere from 3 to 20% back on the things I buy. (You can also receive rewards when you refer a friend to ShopAtHome.

2. Surf the clearance.

Retailers are in the process of switching out their summer lines. But, since I don’t care about the latest and greatest, and since I live in the Land of Eternal Summer, warm weather clothes are right up my alley, especially when they are on sale. I found exactly what I wanted discounted at Lands End, Old Navy, and Loft.

3. Use promotion codes.

All of these online venders also had additional promotions going on. Since I was paying attention to the calendar, I made sure to submit my order before the promotion ended, saving myself 30 to 50% more on each of my orders.

4. Oops! I forgot to …. fill in the blank.

On more than one occasion, I forgot to type in the promotion code or I failed to read the fine print. Instead of shrugging my shoulders, I picked up the phone and called their customer service. Each time the person on the other phone graciously adjusted my order to reflect the lowest possible price.

Ordering online saved me gas, time, and effort as well as a few pennies. In some cases, I’ll be returning a couple items, but each vendor provided me with a free return label so I won’t have to pay shipping when I return the items.

I’ll be shopping for the kids this way as Back to School season gears up and when Christmas approaches. I love being able to shop early in the morning or after the kids go to bed at night. And I love saving money.

Comments

Good job taking advantage of so many different options. Hope your planning on showing your new wardrobe sometime! I agree that wearing clothes that fit you well and look good on your are a big confidence booster.

I usually buy clothes online…but only from a few choice (and cheap) places where I know how the clothes will fit…this certainly isnt foolproof, but I haven’t had to go to the mall but just a few times in the last year…(and only then when Old Navy was having $2 tanks or when Children’s Place sent me a coupon I just couldn’t refuse. I HATE THE MALL! With or without kids!

I’m going to save money this fall by not buying anything for myself. Okay, maybe some church clothes once the fall sales get rolling in a few months.

I know this has been covered before but I want to say again how much a difference it makes when I put effort into my appearance. Last fall I did a huge wardrobe purge and overhaul (I had stuff from before my first pregnancy in 2005!). I ended up spending a few hundred $$$ (keep in mind I work part time and need concert dress too) but it was so worth it. Just the simple act of wearing jeans instead of yoga pants makes me feel so much better as I go about my day. I live in Wisconsin so I take advantage of outerwear and scarves. A cute coat or blazer with a scarf makes me feel very put together no matter what I’m wearing underneath.

Oh, my gosh I totally did this today! I wish I had read this before I placed my orders, though….would have used more of the tips! I know this isn’t a big one, but here’s a promo code I found and used today at target:http://www.couponmountain.com/Target-coupons-deals.html
No affiliation with the site…just something I found and used.

I’ve been doing a bit of the same. Instead of buying new clothes though I am trying to dress up what I already have using chunky necklaces and earrings. It makes me feel so much more dressed up and put together. I also looked up how to hem some pants that can right now only be worn with heels — hence they never get worn.

Oooh, I know about shopping with 4 kids in tow. It’s not fun, Not even by a long stretch.

I try to shop at thrift stores on the weekend, and leave the kids at home. If I bring kids, I definitely adjust my expectations. However, my dh is my thrifting mojo. When he came with me the last time, I found 4 pairs of pants that fit – that’s a record!

I saved money by not buying anything today when shopping with my daughter. I have decided it must be something I love-love-love to buy and preferably something I have been looking for, not impulse unless I love-love-love the impulse and it will be a super boost for me. It felt so good to go home with nothing today, instant de-cluttering!

I do love shopping online. Walmart has some wonderful deals right now with 97 cents shipping. On many sites I’ll wait til they offer a sale or clearance and then wait for free shipping, now that’s my online language! Yes siree bobbie. And of course my rules above still apply online.

I have been shopping online for years. It is sooo much easier than driving out of town to stores. Now with our move, we’re going to have outlets in town! I just might have to do internet AND store shopping.

Welcome to Life as MOM! I'm FishMama, chief cook and bottle washer around here. I have six kids under 18, and I've lived to tell the tale. Want to know how to make the most out of what you have where you are? You've come to the right place.

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